Butt On Reds' Midfield

Nicky Butt knows a thing or two about patrolling the midfield for United and is convinced Sir Alex will find a settled central pair as the season progresses.

After Tom Cleverley and Anderson worked in tandem for the first four Barclays Premier League games, United have tried 13 other partnerships in the engine room and not had the same duo for consecutive matches.

"I think it's difficult to pick the four starting across the midfield," Butt admitted to ManUtd.com recently. "In years gone by, everyone knew who the strongest four or five was. It's different now but we've still got some good players.

"I think Sir Alex will be looking to try and get a steady pairing in the centre. He's had injuries to Darren Fletcher, Cleverley and Anderson so it's been difficult to get a regular line-up in midfield. It helps when you can get everyone on a roll and playing well together."

Despite the injury problems, Butt doesn't think his former manager will focus solely on midfield when the transfer windows open again during 2012.

"Every team can improve, no matter who they are," he added. "Even Barcelona can improve so I'm sure Sir Alex will sign players, whether it be in midfield, defence or up front. He's always looking to enhance his squad."